To my surprise – in our health-conscious (but hypocritical) time – “fat deals” on thick burgers and skinny fries continue to be served from Fatburger.

My order was shouted among a chorus of cooks, who thanked me for a “fat tip”, and I took a table in the crowded little retro burger joint.

A smiling staffer brought my Oreo milkshake ($4.46) and toys for our kids, followed not long after by my massive burger. I could have opted for crisp, tasty fries and pop, but one taste justified my choice: The sweet, creamy vanilla shake was thick with cookie crumbles.

The burger’s just-cooked patty was loaded with crispy bacon and equally crispy fresh veggies. Its bun was soft and yielding. In short, I savoured a great fast food burger.

South Edmonton Common might be terrifying, but thankfully a few havens like Fatburger are sprinkled throughout.